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Collective Soul

Collective Soul is a band that refuses to be repititive; something that ails some of the bigger big bands, particularly U2 and REM. I first heard of Collective Soul years ago, when their single 'December' from a self titled album was playing on Channel [V]. They reminded me of INXS.

Theirs is a very late-80's, early 90's sound. Lots of keyboards, and a spaces where there are mellows followed by breakaway chorus', and a clear distinction between vocals and the music. The sound is quite mature, and changes with song to song. It takes a little getting used to, but after you hear it a couple of times, you begin really enjoying this kind of music. First off, it might seem a little archaic.

The best of their albums is the self titled one. Their latest, Youth, has a changed sound. A little poppish in places, a little countryish at times. Still, each song has a distinct feel to it. I'd recommend you try their self titled album first. Favourites from that - December, Where the River Flows, Gel, Home. I'm not too sure how to define their sound - it's not quite soft rock, and not hard rock either. The songs are rhythm based, and start with a tune that repeats incessently. Aargh.

Perfect for the rain. Not quite in the mood for heavy, and Western Classical would put me to sleep.